This Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad is a celebration of summer on a plate. Sweet, smoky grilled corn pairs perfectly with plump, seasoned shrimp, while creamy avocado and juicy cherry tomatoes add richness and freshness. Finished with a light lime dressing and fresh cilantro, every bite bursts with flavor, texture, and sunshine.
Not only is this dish visually stunning with its bright colors, but it’s also packed with wholesome nutrients. It’s gluten-free, low in carbs, and loaded with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, perfect for a satisfying main course or a light, refreshing side. Whether you serve it at your next cookout or for a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to impress.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 ears fresh corn, husked
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1 ripe avocado, diced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 lime, juiced
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1/2 tsp chili powder
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1/4 tsp cumin
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
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Toss shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
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Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
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Brush corn with remaining olive oil and grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until slightly charred. Cut kernels off the cob.
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In a large bowl, combine grilled shrimp, corn kernels, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
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In a small bowl, whisk lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and gently toss to combine.
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Serve immediately as a fresh main dish or side salad.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad: A Perfect Fusion of Freshness and Flavor
When it comes to light, flavorful, and nutrient-rich meals that perfectly embody the essence of summer, few recipes can rival the delightful charm of a Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad. This vibrant dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also delivers an eye-catching presentation of bright colors, fresh ingredients, and layers of texture. Perfect for family dinners, weekend BBQs, or a wholesome lunch option, this salad offers an irresistible medley of Mexican-inspired flavors.
This recipe is built on the simple beauty of seasonal produce and fresh seafood. With just the right amount of smoky heat from grilled shrimp and corn, paired with the creamy smoothness of avocado and the crispness of cherry tomatoes, the dish brings together contrasting elements in a harmonious blend. Every bite bursts with the tangy brightness of lime, the subtle kick of chili powder and cumin, and the herbal freshness of cilantro. These familiar Mexican flavors come together effortlessly, making the salad both satisfying and refreshing.
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients
The magic of this Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad lies in the freshness of its ingredients. Fresh shrimp, ideally sourced from a reputable seafood market, offers sweetness and tenderness that frozen alternatives simply cannot match. Similarly, fresh ears of corn grilled to perfection bring natural sweetness and smokiness to the dish, elevating its depth of flavor.
Ripe avocado plays a crucial role in this recipe not only for its creamy texture but also for its rich nutritional profile. Avocados are loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, potassium, and vitamins like B6 and E. Their buttery consistency balances the smoky charred shrimp and the sweetness of the corn, offering a perfect counterpoint.
Cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and tangy freshness that ties all the components together. When sliced in half, their juicy interior mixes seamlessly with the lime-based dressing, creating a naturally flavorful and lightly acidic element to the salad. The finely chopped red onion imparts a gentle pungency that sharpens the flavor without overwhelming the dish. Fresh cilantro finishes everything off with its signature herbal aroma and bright, grassy notes.
Health Benefits Packed in Every Bite
Not only is this salad delightful to taste, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients that contribute to overall well-being. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and essential nutrients like selenium, iodine, and vitamin B12. It is also low in calories and fat, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters.
The grilled corn provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining gut health. It also contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which promote eye health. Avocados contribute healthy fats that can help lower bad cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and support cardiovascular health.
Tomatoes bring in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Red onions provide sulfur compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, as well as important vitamins like vitamin C and folate. Cilantro is also rich in antioxidants and can aid in detoxifying the body.
This salad is naturally gluten-free, low in carbs (depending on portion size), and fits perfectly into keto, paleo, and Mediterranean diets. It offers a balanced macronutrient profile that supports energy, satiety, and overall metabolic health.
A Versatile and Customizable Recipe
One of the best features of this recipe is its incredible versatility. While the core elements: shrimp, corn, avocado, and tomato, are irreplaceable for the authentic Mexican flair, you can easily customize it to suit personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
Want to add extra protein? Toss in some black beans or chickpeas. Looking to turn this salad into a hearty main dish? Serve it over a bed of quinoa or mixed greens to create a more filling grain bowl. For an extra kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning.
If you prefer a dairy boost, crumbled cotija or feta cheese sprinkled on top adds a salty, creamy dimension that pairs wonderfully with the smoky shrimp and sweet corn. Alternatively, drizzle with a light chipotle crema or a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with lime juice and garlic for a richer finish.
Vegetarians can swap the shrimp for grilled tofu, halloumi, or portobello mushrooms for a meat-free version that is equally satisfying. For pescatarians avoiding shellfish, grilled salmon chunks work as a fantastic alternative protein source.
This salad is also meal-prep friendly. Grilled shrimp and corn can be cooked in advance and stored in the fridge for a couple of days, making it easy to assemble a fresh bowl whenever desired. The avocado should be diced right before serving to maintain its vibrant green color and prevent oxidation.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer garden party, enjoying a casual lunch by the pool, or packing a nutritious picnic meal, this Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its bright appearance and bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both adults and kids.
For backyard BBQs, this salad serves as a fantastic side dish to complement grilled meats like steak, chicken, or ribs. It also pairs well with chilled white wine or light beers, enhancing its refreshing appeal. As a light lunch or dinner option, it provides satisfaction without heaviness, making it an excellent choice during warm-weather months when hearty meals might feel too heavy.
Additionally, this salad can serve as an appetizer for a larger Mexican-themed meal, accompanied by tacos, enchiladas, or quesadillas. Or, turn it into a taco filling itself, simply spoon the mixture into warm tortillas and garnish with fresh lime and extra cilantro for a delicious handheld meal.
Tips for the Best Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad
To ensure that your Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
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Use Fresh, Raw Shrimp: Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, as they can turn rubbery when reheated on the grill. Raw shrimp ensure optimal texture and flavor.
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Char the Corn Lightly: Aim for a golden, lightly charred exterior on the corn. Over-grilling can dry out the kernels and impart a bitter flavor.
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Add Avocado Last: Toss the avocado into the salad just before serving to prevent browning and maintain its creamy texture.
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Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the lime juice, salt, and seasonings. The citrus helps balance the natural sweetness of the corn and shrimp, while the salt enhances all the other flavors.
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Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, while the shrimp are still slightly warm and the vegetables remain crisp and vibrant.
A Colorful, Nutritious Addition to Your Recipe Repertoire
This Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad stands out not only for its flavor but also for its stunning visual appeal. The interplay of bright yellow corn, pink shrimp, green avocado, and red tomatoes creates a rainbow of colors that is as appetizing to the eyes as it is to the palate. It’s the kind of dish that looks fabulous on a summer table and feels just as satisfying to eat.
Additionally, this recipe embodies the values of wholesome, mindful cooking. It encourages the use of whole foods, seasonal produce, and minimal processing, principles that are essential to healthy eating habits. With such a straightforward preparation process and easily accessible ingredients, it’s a recipe that anyone from novice cooks to experienced chefs can confidently make at home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad is more than just a seasonal dish; it is a flavorful celebration of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques that bring out the best in every component. Whether served as a light lunch, an impressive side dish for gatherings, or as a colorful centerpiece at a summer party, this salad is versatile, nutrient-rich, and irresistibly delicious.
Its combination of smoky grilled shrimp, sweet corn, creamy avocado, and zesty lime dressing delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that appeals to every palate. Best of all, it’s a dish that supports a healthy lifestyle while offering satisfaction and indulgence with every bite.
If you’re looking to add a refreshing, crowd-pleasing, and nutritious recipe to your collection, this Grilled Mexican Shrimp Corn and Avocado Salad is the perfect choice. Prepare it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your warm-weather meal rotation.